At the reception, PM Dung expressed joy at fine development in the strategic cooperation and partnership of Vietnam and Japan in all fields despite the global economic crisis.

He thanked Japan for its ODA provision for Vietnam ’s development programmes and affirmed that Vietnam will make every effort, together with the Japanese side, to make the multifaceted cooperation more effective, for the interests and development of the two nations as well as for peace, stability and development in the region and the world at large.

The Vietnamese Government leader suggested the two sides focus on boosting cooperation in economic activity, trade, investment, infrastructure, energy, environment and culture.

He expressed his wish that the former Japanese PM, with his prestige, will continue making active contributions to fostering the Vietnam-Japan comprehensive cooperation.

Expressing his impression of Vietnam ’s achievements, Yukio Hatoyama spoke highly of Vietnam ’s valuable and effective assistance for Japan in overcoming the consequences of the March earthquake and tsunami.

He expressed his belief that PM Dung’s upcoming official visit to Japan will deepen the multifaceted cooperation between Vietnam and Japan , especially in speeding up the implementation of joint projects on nuclear power, transport infrastructure, hi-tech, education and training, culture and health.

On the same day, the former Japanese PM was received by To Huy Rua, Head of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee’s Commission for Organisation./.